Graduate Teacher Certification Program (GTC)

Individuals who are thinking about making a transition to a teaching career may consider the Graduate Teacher Certification (GTC) program. It is an intensive, one-year, full-time teacher training program for adults who hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college and who already have, or are willing to acquire, a "teachable" major (and possibly a teachable minor) prior to joining the program, as well as meet additional entrance requirements. Teachable majors and minors are referenced below.

The program combines teacher education course work with two consecutive semesters of field placement in a local school. At the completion of the program, students will have earned a teaching certificate as well as graduate credit toward a master's degree. The full master's degree can be completed following certification. All prospective candidates are advised to attend an information session for more detailed explanations. Please call 616-331-6650 to register for one of the monthly information sessions. Additional information is available here.

Elementary Level Teaching: An individual interested in elementary level teaching is required to have a teachable subject major, and would be certified to teach all subjects K-5. In addition, the elementary certification allows an individual to teach grades 6-8 (middle school) in the subject major.Secondary Level Teaching: An individual interested in teaching at the secondary level is required to have a teachable major and minor and would be certified to teach grades 6-12 in the subject major and/or minor.

Through the GTC Program, I have learned to identify myself as a "teacher performer." My job is not only to teach my students English, but to "infotain" them and relate the literature to their lives! The GTC Program gave me the opportunity to touch many young minds and hearts.
Kate Carpenter

NOTE: Those who wish to become certified as elementary or secondary level teachers are required to have a teachable subject major completed before entering the GTC program. Secondary level candidates also need to have a nearly complete teachable minor.

To self-evaluate your transcripts for a teachable major/minor that you are interested in, visit the CLAS academic advising center website for a complete selection. (Note: Self-evaluation of your coursework is helpful but not official.)